Western Europe

European Capital looks forward to a golden age(3)

European Capital has expanded its German debt team as it looks to benefit from reduced competition in the credit markets following the exit of CLOs and hedge funds.

Morgan Stanley expands, re-brands PE division(4)

The US investment bank is continuing to strengthen its private equity team, now called Morgan Stanley Private Equity, as it raises a $6 billion debut fund just three years after spinning out its in-house PE group.

The guilty men

Who was really at fault for the Sainsbury’s debacle? Nicholas Lockley points the finger.

Candover teams with Icelandic rivals for €1.5bn Stork buyout

Candover has salvaged its troubled bid for Dutch conglomerate Stork by teaming up with the Icelandic consortium that jeopardised its initial bid.

Buyouts break European record(4)

The industry is braced for a slow down as buyouts hit a European high in the first half of 2007. The second half looks more restrained after the banking liquidity crisis of the summer. Continental European deals were among the largest, said Tom Lamb, co-head Barclays Private Equity.

European Capital looks forward to a golden age(2)

European Capital has expanded its German debt team as it looks to benefit from reduced competition in the credit markets following the exit of CLOs and hedge funds.

Actis targets $2.5bn for global emerging markets funds(2)

Actis is switching tack with the launch of a global fund, aiming for a $1.25 billion global umbrella vehicle alongside four regional side-funds, the largest pool of capital in its history.

Buyouts fall worldwide by 64%(4)

Financial sponsors’ dealmaking fell dramatically last month as the problems in the debt markets dramatically curtailed the buyout boom. Buyout firms represented only 7 percent of overall mergers and acquisitions volume in August.

PPM Capital’s independence comes a year late(4)

PPM Capital’s spinout from Prudential will take place next quarter, after having been delayed for a year beyond market expectations.

DIC makes first direct MENA investment(2)

Dubai International Capital has completed its first direct private equity investment in the region through the acquisition of luxury company Rivoli Group.